Cristi Kavanaugh caught her first wave at 38 — and built a business that helps others catch theirs, too. In this episode of Retire Southern, host James Lewis visits Cristi at her St. Simons Island home to talk surfing, custom skimboards, community events, and the much anticipated opening of the KavPar Boardsports storefront. Whether you’re a beach lover, parent, or entrepreneur, Cristi’s story of confidence and coastal connection will leave you inspired. Catch the full episode and book surf camps at kavparcustoms.com.

Creature Comforts Brewing is a force for good - just like its mission statement. Now an Athens stronghold with direct connections to the University of Georgia, the Brewery started with roots in science and sustainability, with a little curiosity. CEO Adam Beauchamp joins Retire Southern to teach us about how their focus on community impact, sustainability - and of course, making award-winning beer and distilled spirits - creates a lasting impact.

Tom Lewis, founder of the Kids Can Fish Foundation, joins Retire Southern to share how one moment with his daughter turned into a thriving nonprofit helping kids fall in love with fishing. From coast-to-coast camps to the high-stakes Running of the Bulls Charity Surf Redfish Tournament, this episode explores how generosity, mentorship, and family shaped a mission to break down barriers for young anglers of all backgrounds.

Neil "Hondo" Williamson the legendary voice of the Georgia Bulldog radio network, Gregg Russell of Harbour Town Sea Pines Plantation, chef and restaurateur Ford Fry, Cooper Manning of Fox NFL Sunday's "Manning Hour", Fred LeBlanc of Cowboy Mouth and so much more. Check out Season 1 of the Retire Southern podcast for authentic experiences and meaningful connections from the heart of the American South.

Kevin Joseph isn’t just serving oysters—he’s serving up transformation. In this episode of Retire Southern, James and Amanda dive into Raw Lab, a 12-seat experimental dining experience in Charleston that challenges guests to slow down, engage every sense, and discover something new about food and themselves. From caviar rituals and choreographed courses to stories of resilience and reinvention, this conversation peels back the layers behind one of Charleston’s most unforgettable food experiences.

Nashville’s culinary legend Ms. André Prince joins Retire Southern to share the spicy story behind Prince’s Hot Chicken. From its origins as “revenge chicken” to its worldwide reputation, Ms. Prince reflects on family legacy, food culture, and how she built an empire—without even knowing how to cook. Now in her late 70s, she’s passing the torch while holding tight to her community roots. Listen in for wit, wisdom, and a little heat.

Fred LeBlanc, drummer and frontman of Cowboy Mouth, joins Retire Southern to talk about his wild journey through the music industry—from trash can drums and New Orleans chaos to packed festival stages and decades of electric live shows. Hear how a punk rock spirit, a passion for people, and a commitment to joy have shaped one of the South’s most iconic bands. It’s loud, it’s personal, and it’s everything you'd expect from Fred.

Hospitality at Commander’s Palace isn’t a job description—it’s a full-body commitment to excellence. In this episode, Ti Adelaide Martin shares how her team delivers that level of care day after day, from the first phone call to the final course. She also opens up about co-founding NOCHI, New Orleans’ first dedicated culinary and hospitality training insitution, now partnered with brands like Aramark, Sodexo Live! and Viking River Cruises. Ti’s passion for people, paired with her relentless pursuit of great service, has set a new bar—not just in New Orleans, but across the industry.